Dayton had to find a new running mate for the upcoming election after the current second in command, Yvonne Prettner Solon said last month she would not a seek a second term.

Before being selected to the Governor’s senior staff, Smith previously served as Chief of Staff to Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak.

Senator Amy Klobuchar sent the following statement on Dayton's pick for Lt. Governor: "Tina has ably served as the governor’s chief of staff, helping improve our state’s financial footing and streamline state government. Tina’s diverse experience in public service and business make her a great choice to keep moving our state forward, and she is well-qualified to serve Minnesota as our state’s next lieutenant governor.”